more usually than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more usually than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the frequency of two different actions or occurrences, indicating that one happens more often than the other. Example: "She prefers tea more usually than coffee in the mornings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It is known that there is an x-ray scanner near the revolving entrance to the airport, although more usually than not there is nobody there operating it.

The Guardian

So I try as much as possible, although I am a highly social person, to limit my entertaining to no more (usually) than twice a weekend.

The New York Times

Further, they prescribe antibiotics more usually than ORS.

Unicef

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"The crowds here are more knowledgeable usually than our crowds back in the States.

The New York Times - Sports

Stephen Armstrong was more than usually stern, and his wife, Viola, more than ordinarily devoted to Jesus.

The New Yorker

In an election year that seems more than usually improbable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Writing these words has made us more than usually nervous.

The New Yorker

Solly felt more than usually chagrined by this remark.

The New York Times - Style

Probably I'm a little bit tired more than usually".

The New York Times - Sports

Then again Chevé was more than usually unnerving.

The New Yorker

So, leaders' conference speeches are more than usually important.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "more usually than", ensure the comparison is clear and the context supports the slightly formal tone. Consider whether a simpler phrase like "more often than not" would be more effective.

Common error

Avoid using "more usually than" in informal contexts where simpler language is more appropriate. Overly formal phrasing can make your writing sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more usually than" functions as an adverbial modifier, comparing the frequency of two actions or states. It specifies that one action occurs with greater regularity than the other. Ludwig confirms its usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "more usually than" is a grammatically correct adverbial modifier used to compare the frequency of two events. Ludwig indicates that while usable, it's relatively uncommon and leans towards a neutral to slightly formal register. As the Ludwig examples show, its usage spans news media, formal business, and scientific contexts. For simpler and more common alternatives, consider "more often than" or "more frequently than". When writing, be mindful of the context and audience to determine if "more usually than" is the most appropriate choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more often than not

Emphasizes the frequency of an event occurring.

more frequently than

A more formal way of saying something happens more often.

more commonly than

Focuses on the typicality of an occurrence.

more typically than

Highlights how standard or representative something is.

more habitually than

Stresses the routine nature of an action.

more regularly than

Implies a consistent pattern of occurrence.

more often than is usual

Highlights a deviation from the expected frequency.

more than is customary

Emphasizes a departure from established norms.

on more occasions than

Focuses on the number of instances of an event.

with greater frequency than

A verbose alternative highlighting frequency differences.

FAQs

What does "more usually than" mean?

The phrase "more usually than" indicates that something happens with greater frequency or is more characteristic compared to something else. A simpler alternative is "more often than".

How can I use "more usually than" in a sentence?

You can use "more usually than" to compare the frequency of two actions or events. For example, "He prefers tea "more usually than" coffee in the mornings".

Is there a more common way to say "more usually than"?

Yes, "more often than not" is a more common and generally preferred alternative.

When is it appropriate to use "more usually than"?

It's appropriate when a slightly formal tone is desired and the context clearly benefits from the comparison. However, in many cases, simpler alternatives like "more frequently than" or "more commonly than" may be more suitable.